Is a Hit and Run a Felony in Michigan?
In the state of Michigan, a hit and run accident can be a serious offense, resulting in severe legal consequences. If you have been involved in a hit and run accident, it is essential to understand the laws and penalties associated with this crime. In this article, we will delve into the details of hit and run laws in Michigan, including whether a hit and run is a felony or not.
Is a Hit and Run a Felony in Michigan?
Yes, a hit and run can be a felony in Michigan, depending on the circumstances of the accident. According to Michigan law, a hit and run is considered a felony if the driver of a vehicle leaves the scene of an accident resulting in serious impairment of body function or serious permanent disfigurement. This means that if someone is injured in the accident, and the injuries are severe enough to result in long-term or permanent harm, the driver who fled the scene can be charged with a felony.
What is a Serious Impairment of Body Function?
A serious impairment of body function is defined as an injury that:
- Results in a person being unable to perform one or more of the normal activities of daily living without assistance
- Requires hospitalization for more than 30 days
- Results in a permanent disability or impairment
- Results in a significant loss of bodily function or organ damage
What is a Serious Permanent Disfigurement?
A serious permanent disfigurement is defined as an injury that:
- Results in a significant and permanent change to a person’s appearance
- Results in a significant and permanent loss of function or use of a body part
- Results in a significant and permanent impairment of a body function
Consequences of a Hit and Run Felony
If you are charged with a hit and run felony in Michigan, the consequences can be severe. You could face:
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Fines of up to $5,000
- Loss of driving privileges
- Restitution to the victim(s)
- A permanent criminal record
Non-Felony Hit and Run Charges
If the injuries resulting from the accident are not severe enough to qualify as a felony, the driver who fled the scene can still be charged with a non-felony crime. In Michigan, a non-felony hit and run is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 93 days in jail
- Fines of up to $500
- Loss of driving privileges
- Restitution to the victim(s)
- A criminal record
What Happens if You Leave the Scene of an Accident in Michigan?
If you are involved in an accident in Michigan and leave the scene without stopping, you can be charged with leaving the scene of an accident, regardless of whether anyone was injured or not. This offense is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 90 days in jail
- Fines of up to $500
- Loss of driving privileges
- Restitution to the victim(s)
- A criminal record
Table: Hit and Run Consequences in Michigan
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Felony Hit and Run | Up to 5 years in prison, fines of up to $5,000, loss of driving privileges, restitution to the victim(s), and a permanent criminal record |
| Non-Felony Hit and Run | Up to 93 days in jail, fines of up to $500, loss of driving privileges, restitution to the victim(s), and a criminal record |
| Leaving the Scene of an Accident | Up to 90 days in jail, fines of up to $500, loss of driving privileges, restitution to the victim(s), and a criminal record |
Conclusion
In Michigan, a hit and run can be a serious offense, resulting in severe legal consequences. Whether a hit and run is a felony or not depends on the circumstances of the accident, including the severity of the injuries. If you have been involved in a hit and run accident, it is essential to seek legal advice and understand the laws and penalties associated with this crime.
